ASI restored ancient 'Somasutra' at World Heritage Ramappa Temple
Mulugu, Sept. 5 : The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Hyderabad Circle, has successfully restored the ancient Somasutra at the famous Ramappa Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Telangana. The drainage channel, designed to clear ritual fluids (Abhisheka jalam) from the central sanctum (Garbhagriha), had remained blocked for a long period, preventing devotees from performing traditional Agama Shastra rituals.
To clear the obstruction without risking structural damage, the ASI employed non-destructive, high-tech scientific conservation methods. Engineers used 3D mapping alongside endoscopic and GoPro cameras connected to real-time monitoring screens to inspect the internal blockages. The obstruction was then carefully removed layer-by-layer using a soft-drilling technique that preserved the original stone fabric of the 13th-century monument.
The restoration was executed under the direct supervision of the ASI Hyderabad Circle team, working in coordination with officials from the Telangana Endowments Department. With the Somasutra now fully operational, pilgrims and local priests can perform uninterrupted Abhishekams and traditional rituals in accordance with temple customs.
Keywords: Ramappa Temple, Archaeological Survey of India, Somasutra Restoration, Kakatiya Architecture, Agama Shastra, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mulugu News
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